Waterfowl hunting opens in France amid drought concerns

Waterfowl hunting has officially commenced, despite significant concerns regarding exceptional drought conditions. While maritime hunting began in August, certain species of ducks, geese, and moorhens are only eligible for hunting from September 15 until January 31.

The Ligue pour la protection des oiseaux (LPO) contested the start date, advocating for a delay until September 20. Allain Bougrain-Dubourg, president of the LPO, noted that drought has deprived aquatic birds of essential habitats for food and protection, while also reducing stopover points for migratory species.

According to the Office Français de la biodiversité, 43% of watercourses are currently experiencing a total loss of flow. The LPO warns that the reduction in available water points causes birds to concentrate in fewer areas, increasing the risk of high mortality rates during hunting. Under environmental law, local prefects maintain the authority to temporarily suspend hunting in response to calamities that threaten game.